Eating anti-inflammatory foods can lower the risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Consuming these types of healthy foods can also help seniors maintain a healthy weight. To combat inflammation and boost their overall health, older adults should add the following nutritious foods to their diets.
Pineapple
Pineapple is abundant in bromelain, which is a digestive enzyme that can enhance joint health and reduce swelling as well as bruising. The fruit is also rich in vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties that can help the immune system get rid of inflammation and fend off free radicals.
Eating antioxidant-rich foods is just one of the many healthy lifestyle choices for older adults. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Roseville, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Fish
Abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is known for being one of the most potent anti-inflammatory agents. Adding salmon as well as other types of fish, such as anchovies, tuna, and sardines, to the diet is a good way to get omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA that reduce inflammation. Also, the American Heart Association suggests seniors need omega-3 fatty acids to prevent vascular inflammation known to cause heart disease.
Beets
Beets are abundant in betaine, which is a nutrient known to fight inflammation and boost metabolism. Eating beets can also aid in protecting cells from harmful environmental stress. Additionally, these vegetables can reduce the risk of many chronic diseases linked to inflammation, such as arthritis and diabetes.
Dark Chocolate
One of the key nutrients of dark chocolate is resveratrol, a phytonutrient that protects the cells and DNA from free radicals, fights inflammation, and treats joint pain. To maximize protection against inflammation, buy dark chocolate that contains up to 80 percent cacao.
Broccoli
Belonging to the cabbage family, broccoli is rich in sulforaphane, an antioxidant that can reduce levels of inflammatory compounds and lower the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Some seniors need help preparing nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Roseville seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a wonderful source of vitamins C and B6, manganese, dietary fiber, and beta-carotene. When these nutrients work together, they become strong antioxidants that can heal the inflammation in the body. Regularly consuming plant foods like sweet potatoes is also known to lessen the risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, which are all ailments associated with inflammation.
Berries
Blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries are abundant in antioxidants best known as flavonoids. They eliminate inflammation by reducing free-radical damage done to the cells. Regularly consuming berries has also been known to boost cognitive health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to help your aging parent combat inflammation and enjoy better health. In Roseville, live-in care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Call us at 916.226.3737 to schedule a free in-home consultation.